Deputy Editor
Florida law enforcement confiscated more than 500 illegal slot machines and almost $200,000 in a gambling bust last Friday. Attorney General James Uthmeier said the bust shut down an operation spanning four counties, including Duval County, where Jacksonville is located.
Uthmeier stated in January that Florida would initiate a harder line against illegal gambling in 2026. This bust looks to be a sign that Uthmeier’s words were more than just political bluster. He said the operation serves as a warning shot to illegal operations across the state:
Unlawful gambling operations often play a role as the financial backing behind criminal networks. These illegal casinos fuel organized crime, prostitution, and other illicit activities. Florida will see a major statewide crackdown on illegal gaming in 2026. If you’re running an illegal operation, don’t roll the dice; shut it down now.
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Florida Illegal Slot Machines Populated Bars, Convenience Stores
Authorities in Florida busted 40 establishments in Brevard, Duval, Flagler, and Volusia Counties. All are located on the Eastern Coast of Florida, from the Jacksonville area on down to the Satellite Beach area near Cape Canaveral. The official list of offending establishments includes a variety of bars, clubs, gas stations, and convenience stores.
Law officers also made arrests, according to local news, but the number was not publicized. The Flagler County Sheriff’s Office released a statement saying that business owners who house the illegal machines could be fined $10,000 per machine.
A total of 525 machines were seized, but Uthmeier called that a preliminary number. More machines are still being rounded up as part of the investigation.
The video of law enforcement agents carting away machines included at least one copy of Dragon Link, a popular slot at the center of a recent high-profile lawsuit.
Several States Cracking Down on Illegal Gambling Machines
Law enforcement officials in several states have recently ramped up the pressure on illegal gambling houses.
Last week, a major bust in Texas resulted in the seizure of more than $400,000, along with 749 machines. A local mayor was even implicated in the alleged criminal enterprise.
In early February, California authorities raided several so-called “tap-tap” casinos. Many of these housed so-called “fish game” arcades that purport to introduce a skill element.
Missouri and Pennsylvania are also examining the legality of video game terminals (VGTs) and skill games, respectively.
Such skill games often have terrible return-to-player (RTP) rates. One study by the American Gaming Association claimed that skill games return about 75% to the player. That’s an abhorrent number compared to most regulated slots, which are generally north of 90%.
